Cabin accommodations near Petrolia, California position visitors at the edge of the Lost Coast region with access to old-growth redwood forests and coastal adventures. The region sits at the meeting point of the King Range mountains and the Pacific Ocean, where winter temperatures typically range from 40-55°F and summer temperatures average 55-75°F. Most cabin facilities in this region remain open year-round with modified access during the rainy winter months from November through March.
What to do
Riverside relaxation: Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination offers direct river access for cooling off in summer months. "This campground had an accessible river right next to it. Great big redwoods surrounded you on every side. The staff was helpful whether you met them in the store or on the grounds," notes Tim G. The nearby Eel River provides seasonal swimming spots from May through August.
Historic hospitality: The historic Benbow Inn near Benbow KOA & Golf Course provides dining options just steps from the campground. "There's a golf course nearby if that is of interest, and a stream for fishing within walking distance. Finally, it's right next to the Benbow Inn, an historic old hotel with a nice bar and restaurant. The food and service there were quite nice and definitely unexpected," reports James W.
Redwood exploration: Avenue of the Giants runs directly past several cabin locations with short trail options. "The Avenue of the Giants is one of my favorite places in the whole world. Burlington camp ground is basically right in the middle. It's right next to the ranger station/visitor center and just a few minutes away from Miranda, where you can pick up some last minute supplies," advises April H. from Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
What campers like
Ancient forests: The old-growth redwoods create a unique camping environment with deep shade and quiet surroundings. "Probably my favorite campground due to the ingenious ancient trees surrounding the entire area. Plenty of hiking super close to the campground. We visited in Winter and had nearly the entire place to ourselves," shares Dani P. about Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
Family amenities: Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort offers additional recreational facilities beyond basic cabin accommodations. "Children's play area was nice. Grassy areas needed mowing. Dog area had agility items for the dogs," notes Jenni C. The resort also features a pool and spa that some guests report as well-maintained.
Private accommodations: Some cabins near Petrolia provide more secluded options for those seeking privacy. "The treehouse" at Stafford RV Park receives specific mention from Laura M.: "There's a cute tree house and cute cabins (tiny), as well as a tent-only area for $30. There's also a dump station (free for campers), a laundry room, and free showers."
What you should know
Variable water quality: Several cabin properties in the area have reported water quality issues. Laura M. notes at Stafford RV Park: "The water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom, ick. And that water is what we used to fill our onboard RV tank (and that's with using a filter)."
Seasonal river conditions: The Eel River changes dramatically through the seasons. Randy J. from Giant Redwoods reports: "Our site backed up to the Eel river with Giants redwoods everywhere. The grounds were super clean and quiet. Just hung out at the beach the whole time." However, Nirav notes, "Water level was not that much when we had visited."
Limited services: Many cabin locations have restricted amenities despite being advertised as full-service. Jesse E. says about Redcrest Resort: "The place advertised 'limited wifi' and for us it totally did nothing. Was hoping to work a bit on the laptop but even though I was connected everything just timed out."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access: Facilities vary widely between cabin properties. "The bathroom's had a combination lock on them even though they were behind a privacy fence from the road (we didn't ask but didn't get a code when we checked in so I assume they are only for the Tent sites??)," reports Jesse E. about Redcrest Resort.
Activity planning: Richardson Grove State Park offers family-friendly programming through its visitor center. April H. notes, "The rangers are very knowledgeable, which is great if you're looking for things to do/places to see on you're trip."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage at many cabin locations. "Each site is provided with a fire pit and bear box. You definitely want to use the bear boxes, it's not uncommon to spot a bear while in the Avenue," warns April H. about camping in the redwoods region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites with cabins often have varying quality and access. At Benbow KOA, April Y. advises: "I suggest a premium patio site since they are on the ends of the rows along the exit of the 1-way street. They are the easiest to pull into from your row. Big rigs may have some maneuvering otherwise."
Hookup positioning: The arrangement of utilities can create challenges for larger rigs. "All hookups are at the very back of your site so the power posts are slightly in the way when pulling in. Driving in the grass is unavoidable," continues April Y. about Benbow KOA.
Connectivity concerns: Internet access is limited at most cabin locations. At Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination, Ady O. reports: "Excellent WiFi. Weak Verizon and no AT&T service." This varies significantly by property, with many offering no reliable connection options.
